tesla – Michael J McCluskey

In recent months, a wave of protests has surged against Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk, driven by his political involvement and the actions of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). These demonstrations, part of the “Tesla Takedown” movement, have unfolded across the United States and internationally, reflecting deep-seated concerns about Musk’s influence in government and its implications for democracy.

Origins of the Protests

The protests began in early 2025, sparked by Musk’s appointment as head of DOGE, a department tasked with reducing federal spending and deregulation. Critics argue that Musk’s role poses a threat to democratic institutions, perceiving it as a consolidation of power that favors the wealthy at the expense of working families. Activist Valerie Costa articulated the movement’s goal: to take a stand against the tech oligarchy behind the administration’s actions and to encourage divestment from Tesla.

Nationwide Demonstrations

Demonstrations have erupted at Tesla showrooms in numerous cities, including New York, San Francisco, Minneapolis, and Kansas City. Protesters have been vocal, with chants like “Elon Musk can go to Mars; we don’t need your Nazi cars,” referencing Musk’s controversial political associations. Notably, musician Sheryl Crow publicly shared a video of her Tesla being removed, symbolizing her disapproval of Musk’s actions.

Escalation to Vandalism

While many protests have remained peaceful, there has been a troubling escalation to vandalism and violence. In South Carolina, an individual attempted to firebomb a Tesla charging station, resulting in self-inflicted injuries. Additionally, Tesla properties have been targets of arson and vandalism, raising concerns about the safety of both employees and customers.

International Solidarity

The discontent is not confined to the United States. In the United Kingdom, the activist group Led By Donkeys orchestrated a protest where a Tesla was used to inscribe “Don’t buy a Tesla” on a Welsh beach, a message visible from space. This act was led by a former Tesla owner disillusioned with Musk’s political stance.

Impact on Tesla’s Market Performance

The protests have had a tangible impact on Tesla’s financial performance. The company’s stock has experienced significant declines, with a 15% drop marking its most substantial decrease in five years. Sales have also weakened globally, attributed to both the protests and increasing competition in the electric vehicle market.

Political Ramifications

Musk’s political engagements have further fueled the protests. His alignment with controversial policies and figures has alienated segments of the public and former supporters. This political entanglement has not only affected Tesla’s brand image but also raised questions about the ethical implications of corporate leaders holding governmental positions.

Conclusion

The protests against Tesla and Elon Musk underscore a complex intersection of politics, corporate influence, and public dissent. As the situation evolves, it highlights the challenges that arise when business leaders engage deeply in political arenas, prompting debates about accountability, democracy, and the role of corporate power in governance.

On January 1, 2025, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, resulting in the death of the driver and injuries to seven bystanders. The driver was identified as 37-year-old Army Special Forces soldier Matthew Livelsberger, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound immediately before the explosion.

Investigations revealed that Livelsberger had packed the Cybertruck with fireworks, gas canisters, and camping fuel, creating a makeshift explosive device. In notes found on his cellphone, he described the act as a “wake-up call” to highlight his grievances against the U.S. government, criticizing its leadership and expressing a desire to “cleanse” his mind of lost comrades, suggesting struggles with PTSD.

Authorities have stated that Livelsberger acted alone and that the incident was not an act of terrorism. The explosion caused minimal damage to the hotel, and the injuries sustained by bystanders were reported as minor. The FBI, ATF, and local police continue to investigate the incident, focusing on Livelsberger’s motives and mental health leading up to the event.

This incident follows another vehicular attack in New Orleans on the same day, where a driver killed 14 people by driving into a crowd. Authorities are investigating potential links between the two incidents, noting that both perpetrators had military connections and used the same vehicle-sharing app.

The Las Vegas explosion has raised questions about the mental health care of soldiers and the complexities of motivations behind such acts. Experts have noted that the damage could have been more severe if more sophisticated materials were used, crediting the Cybertruck’s design for containing the blast and minimizing potential damage.

Authorities continue to analyze Livelsberger’s writings and digital communications to gain a deeper understanding of his state of mind and the factors contributing to this tragic event.